Windows 8.1: Determining 32-bit or 64-bit

General Information

This information has to do with the way the computer processes information in the CPU. 64-bit can handle large amounts of RAM more effectively. To determine whether you are using a 32-bit or a 64-bit Operating System, follow the steps below.
 

Determine 32-bit or 64-bit Operating System

1. Basic information about your computer can be found in the System window. Below are two ways to get to the System window:

  • Open the Windows Charms bar [Windows Button +C]:

    • Click Settings.

    • Click Control Panel.

    • Click System.

  • OR  One of the following keyboard shortcuts:

    • [Windows Button + Pause/Break]

    • [Windows Button + X] Select System

2. Locate the area named: System type.

3. If your computer is a 32-bit Operating System, you will see:

  • 32-bit Operating System, x64-based processor.

Windows 8(.1) System Information for 32-bit CPU highlighted in the middle of the screen
 


4. If your computer is a 64-bit Operating System, you will see:

  • 64-bit Operating System, x64-based processor.

Windows 8(.1) System Information with 64-bit highlighted in the middle of the screen.
 

Referenced from: Windows.microsoft.com

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7/2/2025 10:23:32 AM